Madden NFL 21

 PlayStation 4
User Score
0.3

Overwhelming dislike- based on 5792 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 85 out of 5792
  2. Mixed: 34 out of 5792
  3. Negative: 5,673 out of 5792
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this game

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. MrBlowUp
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is so bad it literally forced me to create an account just to give it a 0/100. It’s the same game, sure its football and what can you expect, with a game mode nobody asked for. Franchise mode is dull. FOTF is lifeless. They should fire/sue whoever photoshopped the new jersey’s on players who joined new teams.(Tom Brady, for example) They gave the community none of what it wantedThis game is so bad it literally forced me to create an account just to give it a 0/100. It’s the same game, sure its football and what can you expect, with a game mode nobody asked for. Franchise mode is dull. FOTF is lifeless. They should fire/sue whoever photoshopped the new jersey’s on players who joined new teams.(Tom Brady, for example) They gave the community none of what it wanted and asked for, and if you’re seeing this big of an outpour from your fans (the only people who care about your game) after them giving you literally 4 years to fix everything, you know you f**ked up. Shame on you EA.… Expand
  2. IamRonBurgandy
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Franchise is garbage. EA is basically scamming consumers as they are only updating game modes which bring them additional revenue via micro transactions. Please, US government, put regulations in place that prevent loot box mechanics.… Expand
  3. OhWowWeWoo
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    As a football fan and someone who grew up playing the Madden Franchise, it really pains how little they change Madden year by year for the past 5-7 years or so. FRANCHISE SUCKS MAJOR BUTTHOLE. Here is a list of a few things we still need and still want fixed after many years of asking, not only in FRANCHISE but GAMEPLAY ALSO.

    * More customization (customize new players looks, customize    As a football fan and someone who grew up playing the Madden Franchise, it really pains how little they change Madden year by year for the past 5-7 years or so. FRANCHISE SUCKS MAJOR BUTTHOLE. Here is a list of a few things we still need and still want fixed after many years of asking, not only in FRANCHISE but GAMEPLAY ALSO.

    * More customization (customize new players looks, customize new teams and stadiums)

    * More Season/Career stats (like a list of all the previous superbowl games, seeing when a player joined a new team and naming what the team is)

    * Better AI clock management - Why would AI call their final timeout with like 14-20seconds left in the game when in IRL the team would call that final timeout with 3-2 seconds and then make a field goal for the win.

    * Slot receiver stats are overpowered - We keep seeing a bunch of mediocre slot wide receivers outperform the Best recievers in the game like Julio Jones or D-HOP every year

    * AI players who are losing the game still don't run out of bounds when they need to, they don't even attempt to run out of bounds.

    *Better Weather system - In IRL, in games, the weather can change sometimes right? lol, in one quarter of the game its cloudy, then next quarter it starts to rain. We need better Mother Nature in Madden.

    *When Quarterback scramble and get hit, they fumble like 80% of the time even when I change their carrying rating to 99. Fix that

    *Better Superbowl Celebration. You guys have had the same old celebration for the past 4-5 years frame by frame that lasts for like 30seconds. Change something up please.

    PS. NO ONE CARES ABOUT FACE OF THE FRANCHISE    … Expand
  4. Hughesy
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is so poor as it has always been. There has not been 1 improvement to the game. They literally made "The Yard" to compete with 2ks new title that hasn't even been released. Sim game that competes in an arcade gamemode just shows how lost the executives are on this. The devs are not at fault.
  5. Doogiehouser11
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is glitchy as it’s ever been. They took very little time to make sure things were correct before the release and seem to have forced this new game mode down our throats that to be perfectly honest in my opinion get away from what made the game great and thats the ACTUAL game of football thru simulation and competitive game modes now it’s an arcade based game which isThis game is glitchy as it’s ever been. They took very little time to make sure things were correct before the release and seem to have forced this new game mode down our throats that to be perfectly honest in my opinion get away from what made the game great and thats the ACTUAL game of football thru simulation and competitive game modes now it’s an arcade based game which is disappointing when knowing the simulation and competitive gameplay is why made this game as successful as it’s always been. If I wanted to play an arcade style game I’d of rebooted nfl blitz. It’s not what’s expected from an ea series game.… Expand
  6. papap0st
    Aug 31, 2020
    2
    This game is a technical mess full of glitches and bugs. There is 0 attention to detail as there are plenty of misspellings, wrong info, and copy/paste everything.

    Some improvements come in the form of general gameplay improvements. But the technical mess of everything around them overshadows anything positive. Misaligned players, broken plays, etc. I've experienced more issues in 2    This game is a technical mess full of glitches and bugs. There is 0 attention to detail as there are plenty of misspellings, wrong info, and copy/paste everything.

    Some improvements come in the form of general gameplay improvements. But the technical mess of everything around them overshadows anything positive. Misaligned players, broken plays, etc. I've experienced more issues in 2 weeks with this game than I did all of last year.

    Don't even waste your time in the "career" mode. The developers clearly didn't.    … Expand
  7. Toorichforoux
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The game is awful, they added an Arcade Mode game in the yard which does nothing for me wanting a simulation style football game. Considering that EA has the EXCLUSIVE rights to make a Madden 21 game, this is unnaceptable. #NFLdropEA… Expand
  8. Davidl9566
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Less content and more bugs than last year. And face of the franchise is embarrassingly bad.
  9. Noahm1510
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    The same terrible broken game from last year. The only change made is the arcade “Yard” mode which doesn’t follow NFL rules and is more comparable to Arena football. Still the same animations as last year. Don’t buy this game!!! #NFLdropEA #FixFranchisemode
  10. Ejh2020
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Same trash as usual. EA only cares about milking Unsuspecting kids on the microtransactions. I won’t give EA another look until something drastic happens - greedy bastards.
  11. Boomheel
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is attrocious. No attention to detail. No drastically needed changes for franchise mode, no gameplay improvements. It’s a copy and paste almost entirely from last year.
  12. sikavuka21
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is so broken. What a waste of $60 . 2k need to come out with there football game so there can be a competitiveness between them and EA
  13. LordTarkus
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Bad game ea try again. Greedy publisher. Same game as the last but you have to pay. Don’t buy please.
  14. DanJohns
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This is the WORST game I have ever played in my entire life. I have been playing since Madden 13 so sadly I have never played a good madden game. But the game has been significantly getting worse gameplay-wise every single year. I have gone back and played NFL 2K5 and even without nostalgia, It is 100x the better game. I have been playing for over 8 years and I still haven't seen aThis is the WORST game I have ever played in my entire life. I have been playing since Madden 13 so sadly I have never played a good madden game. But the game has been significantly getting worse gameplay-wise every single year. I have gone back and played NFL 2K5 and even without nostalgia, It is 100x the better game. I have been playing for over 8 years and I still haven't seen a coaching tree in franchise. I don't understand why can't they just make the game like NCAA Football 14 which is still the best sports game I have played to date. I can't believe Madden 21 is made by the same company that made that game. If EA wants to make a terrible arcade gambling game for 5-year-olds than don't use up the exclusive sim NFL license. Why not just drop franchise mode and just have MUT and get an exclusive NFL arcade license. The yard is a Walmart version of NBA2K's park which I love. I just don't understand why EA couldn't just add one feature to franchise mode every year instead of taking away one feature of franchise mode each year. The face of the franchise mode is maybe the most cringe storyline I have ever seen. It's like the developers at EA saw how good 2K's mycareer is and said let's see how we can ruin this. The next thing is that I don't understand how people expect the gameplay to be realistic when the engine that Madden runs on isn't even made for a football game. The frostbite engine was made by EA in 2008 for first-person shooters. It was used in a lot of the Battlefield games. In 2017 EA starting acting like this engine was some new technology that was going to fix gameplay in Madden 18. They literally put it on the back of the box. This is why the gameplay in a football game made 16 years ago is better than this. The receivers in 2K5 could actually run a fade to the back of the endzone. The worst thing is as the game get's worse the price goes up. For me to even think about buying this game next year it Franchise mode needs to have a Coaching Carousel with Coaching skill trees, advanced scouting with descriptions for each player, advanced stat-tracking with year to year stats, more accurate simulation, more detailed and customizable relocation options, player morale where they could demand a contract extension or a trade, training camp, position battles, more accurate trade logic, non-op X-Factors, NFL rule changes (like in NBA2K), and modernize outside linebacker and defensive end specifications,. They also would have to fix the gameplay by making an engine specifically for football games. Lastly, make the yard exactly like the park in 2k and make it 3v3 and all online players (not CPU) instead of 6v6. The sad thing about all of this is that the people at EA won't even care about this awful user score because they are too busy making racks off five-year-olds using their mom's credit cards. In response to a low user score EA sports employee, Clint Oldenburg said " well 2 is better than 1". This is why I have no hope for EA to make a good football game ever again. DO NOT BUY THIS GAME! Its a waste of a hard-earned $60. That's all I have to say… Expand
  15. Mike5253
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. An update thats worth $60 NO THANKS! BRING BACK 2k, y’all should actually make a game every other year...… Expand
  16. Sinzey83
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Glitchy as **** Don’t buy the game. Just go spend $2 on madden 16. It’s the same game.
  17. Kpleder
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Trash. Every year the game is stripped down even more, while all their effort goes into their legalized gambling mut mode. A disgrace to the human race. They truly despise their customers and just want to suck as much money out of them with as little effort as possible. With so many hurting right now, it's simply horrific they would attempt to rob people. End the monopoly.
  18. Candycake
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Don't buy this game, that's awful !!! It is no different from its predecessor, at $ 60. EA is really lazy, they should have made the game new but no, this is not NFL 21, this is NFL 20.5… Expand
  19. Shawmin02
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    The worst edition of Madden ever made. Seriously... just give football to 2K. EA Sports is a joke.
  20. silentecho1189
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Same game every year. No competition = no innovation. 2k needs to come back and make a football game. Back in those days ea and 2k were driving each other forward making innovative choices, ea has no reason to try and they fail year in and year out.
  21. cjbenavidez
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Another sad year, Im seriously frustrated this is what we get. I regret that I supported EA's product. I wont make that mistake again. Buying used till they decide to put real effort into making a game. so many bugs, terrible game play, its just plain not fun and EA continues its release of unfinished games. Madden 21 is terrible! just terrible. very frustrating and sad.
  22. Nfldropea2020
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Don’t pay for this roster update. Franchise is reskinned, gameplay is buggy and animation based. Essentially it’s a Glorified gambling simulation targeted at kids, as it is has been every year on this current console generation.
  23. Bunky78
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I've never played a worse Madden game since start of Madden itself. Born in 1978 I was one of many 80s kids growing up playing Nintendo super Nintendo. Madden came on the scene one of the very first ones to play Madden and it was good. Seems to be the last 15 to 20 years EA sports have gotten lazy. Unfortunately until they show me that they can get their head out of their backside I willI've never played a worse Madden game since start of Madden itself. Born in 1978 I was one of many 80s kids growing up playing Nintendo super Nintendo. Madden came on the scene one of the very first ones to play Madden and it was good. Seems to be the last 15 to 20 years EA sports have gotten lazy. Unfortunately until they show me that they can get their head out of their backside I will not be buying another EA sports related game.… Expand
  24. JLaCivita
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    It really is just another roster update. The franchise mode has been untouched for years. It’s time for change. The yard does not seem that appealing.
  25. Mitchyw
    Aug 26, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Stupid game, horrible and I hope they finally learn their lesson and make a quality game or 2k does… Expand
  26. XanderC
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is awful, franchise mode is terrible, gameplay is horrendous, minus a few little things its the same game every year for the last 5 years, The NFL should be ashamed of themselves for allowing a product like this to come out, please don't buy this game, its the only way they will listen.
  27. Ryanchugie
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    What can I say other than it’s complete crap and over priced and makes you have some many microtransactions I feel like it’s a mobile game
  28. benlee540
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is legit TRASH! Copy and Paste. EA continues to ignore all the issues, DO NOT BUY!
  29. Venomnous
    Aug 31, 2020
    1
    They are lazy. A monopoly sitting on their butt. Even in their most popular game mode they do not fix a game mode breaking glitch a week after “official launch” In squads if you try to throw a pass in the gun, no play action it will kick you off qb and cause havoc on offense for you as your teammate takes over unaware of what’s happening. To top that off the ultimate team mode content isThey are lazy. A monopoly sitting on their butt. Even in their most popular game mode they do not fix a game mode breaking glitch a week after “official launch” In squads if you try to throw a pass in the gun, no play action it will kick you off qb and cause havoc on offense for you as your teammate takes over unaware of what’s happening. To top that off the ultimate team mode content is diminishing each year. They take out competitive master and are slow with promos. Which is extremely disappointing because there was such a lack of content at the end of the year for madden 20. The same thing will probably happen again if not sooner. This is to not even mention franchise mode which is a copy and paste each year. #NflDropEA… Expand
  30. Superman_94
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Haven’t played a Madden game from EA in years. Picked this up thinking at least with all the years I missed there would be some innovation or improvements but no, it’s more broken than ever, more monetised than ever and even more of a copy-and-paste from the previous year it’s ever been. EA ruin games, scummy company that’s only reason for making 99% of the stuff they do is to squeeze asHaven’t played a Madden game from EA in years. Picked this up thinking at least with all the years I missed there would be some innovation or improvements but no, it’s more broken than ever, more monetised than ever and even more of a copy-and-paste from the previous year it’s ever been. EA ruin games, scummy company that’s only reason for making 99% of the stuff they do is to squeeze as much money out of its playerbase it can with the minimal amount of effort.… Expand
  31. TheRealPatDaddy
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is a waste of money! Do not buy it! Buy madden 18 or 19 for way cheaper and the same game
  32. Bigloevlyj
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Makes you angrier the more you play. Stop with the terrible animations. Fix franchise mode!
  33. Ndg1221
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    NFL 2k5, as in 2005, as in FIFTEEN YEARS AGO, with TERREL OWENS on the cover, is leagues better than Madden 2021. That is absurd. Let EA die with this console generation and open the license back up. Give 2k a shot at a football sim again. ITS TIME!
  34. Krazian09
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Buddy got it before I had a chance to purchase it. Went and checked it out and it’s literally madden19/20 nothing is different literally nothing. Don’t even waste your money.… Expand
  35. CalebStone
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It sucks and it’s ass we are not review bombing the should stop making games and give 2k the simulation license and give EA non simulation… Expand
  36. Chiefkeith92
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    EA is lazy af. NFL 2k5 was better and more innovative than this yrah #FixFranchiceMode
  37. melvinandrew
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Steer clear of this game, several veterans free agents are missing (I.e. Clowney) due to player’s rights agreements, the game is incredibly glitchy and uninspired. Terrible job by EA as has been the case for several years now.
  38. Lurkthelegion
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. What can I say that has not been said, there are countless glitches the gameplay is bad and franchise has no depth unlike many games before. I had a game where Lamar Jackson was playing DE and managed to hit stick fumble Derrick Henry. The worst part is that this is marketed as a simulation football game. It is F$&@ing Bs… Expand
  39. Cdf360
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Nothing to see here folks. Just EA cashing in on the same game they’ve put out for the last 4-5 years with literally zero discernible improvements. As a subscriber to EA access (I know, I’m a moron) I played the trial to this game for the full 10 hours, and it’s still the same vapid, unrealistic, and unimmersive experience it’s been for the past 4-5 years. To anyone reading this, stopNothing to see here folks. Just EA cashing in on the same game they’ve put out for the last 4-5 years with literally zero discernible improvements. As a subscriber to EA access (I know, I’m a moron) I played the trial to this game for the full 10 hours, and it’s still the same vapid, unrealistic, and unimmersive experience it’s been for the past 4-5 years. To anyone reading this, stop giving your money to EA every year for the same garbage product. If you want to play Madden, buy Madden 17. It’s 1/60 of the price, for exactly the same product.… Expand
  40. Natedogg
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Haven’t bought and enjoyed a single madden since Madden 10. Micro transactions and glitches simulator is what you’re paying for this year. We all love 2k but even they’re starting to fall into the pit of what madden is now. Drop the contract if you want any support in this market.
  41. NovaPrototype
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Same game year in and year out just copy and paste nba 2k with NFL players and rules!!! It would be 100 times better!!! Of course it’s not that easy but Jesus Christ man this entire console generation has not just been bad but has been downright terrible!!!! Plz NFL #NFLdropEA #fixmaddenfranchise we need competition so fans of your product can get something that resembles an NFL franchiseSame game year in and year out just copy and paste nba 2k with NFL players and rules!!! It would be 100 times better!!! Of course it’s not that easy but Jesus Christ man this entire console generation has not just been bad but has been downright terrible!!!! Plz NFL #NFLdropEA #fixmaddenfranchise we need competition so fans of your product can get something that resembles an NFL franchise mode!!! Player NEGOTIATION, CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS for COACHES assistant coaches, GMs, player character actually meaning something, a superstar mode WORTH A DAMN, plz for the love of GOD!!!!!… Expand
  42. RamenPleb
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    it's pretty pathetic that a game with such a large budget behind it is this terrible. It's the same garbage they have been regurgitating since Madden 15. They remove features with no care for seasoned franchise players, or basically just anybody else that doesn't want to spend money on a game they already. If you are considering buying this, DO NOT! It's the same inept, greed driven, gameit's pretty pathetic that a game with such a large budget behind it is this terrible. It's the same garbage they have been regurgitating since Madden 15. They remove features with no care for seasoned franchise players, or basically just anybody else that doesn't want to spend money on a game they already. If you are considering buying this, DO NOT! It's the same inept, greed driven, game with the same lack of any semblance of a **** EA has had a long running history of putting the almighty dollar above consumers. Don't give your hard earned money to such a garbage company or at the very least, buy the game pre owned so you don't give them more money than you need to, or **** just **** pirate it. Do all you can to make sure EA doesn't have a chance to make another waste of money.… Expand
  43. Julesf
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    EA‘s focus has been on micro transactions for almost a decade now. The Franchise Mode desperately needs deeper customization and general improvements. Why do they claim to be the simulation compared to 2K, yet they bring in superpowers like X-factors. We all just want to customize teams and have a lot of gear. Maybe even tattoos and stuff. They are just resting on their monopoly, whileEA‘s focus has been on micro transactions for almost a decade now. The Franchise Mode desperately needs deeper customization and general improvements. Why do they claim to be the simulation compared to 2K, yet they bring in superpowers like X-factors. We all just want to customize teams and have a lot of gear. Maybe even tattoos and stuff. They are just resting on their monopoly, while waiting for the next year to bring the first "appropriate“ game for next gen.… Expand
  44. patrick02985
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This is a sad terrible, and disappointing excuse for a football video game coming from the worst sports video game company.
  45. Bossninja26
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    The game is just horrible no additions to franchise buggy etc. Also has been the same game for 5 years EA needs to be dropped don’t buy this year don’t buy the next until there’s a change.
  46. mannylovescooch
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Just the same **** every year #FIXFRANCHISE #NFLDROPEA **** trashhhhhhhhhhhhh
  47. CedricM71
    Aug 31, 2020
    1
    The only good thing about this game is The Yard, Franchise mode is the exact same, Face of the Franchise is pre determined, and MUT is a pay to win mode. The gameplay is atrocious, it's not realistic football and it's full of glitches.
  48. randy621
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Long time Madden fan. Grew up with the game. Loved old game modes like superstar mode. Wasn't the most polished, but it had at least some heart. There is no heart anymore. It is clear whichever department at EA that is responsible for putting out these abhorrent and disrespectful products do not care at all. The only way they will ever listen is if we, as the fans, do not reward theirLong time Madden fan. Grew up with the game. Loved old game modes like superstar mode. Wasn't the most polished, but it had at least some heart. There is no heart anymore. It is clear whichever department at EA that is responsible for putting out these abhorrent and disrespectful products do not care at all. The only way they will ever listen is if we, as the fans, do not reward their greedy and selfish behavior. Do not but this game if you love football.… Expand
  49. Rgt827
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Game is trash everything about it sucks. I don't think I'll buy a madden game again unless they drop ea sports
  50. Slappist
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I skip every other madden whenever I buy them to actually feel like there’s a difference. But going from madden 19 franchise mode to madden 21 franchise mode there’s literally been only one change and it was a step backwards.. just disappointed.… Expand
  51. MooSooTNT
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Thanks EA for your reskinned BS. This game is trash just like Metacritic score system .
  52. THA2342
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Worst Madden game ever. Bugs, no innovation, and lackluster presentation. All EA care about is microtransactions and MUT. #NFLdropEA!

    Do not purchase this game! If you have Madden 20 or Madden 19 then you already purchase Madden 21.
  53. Boltz20
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    If this game didn’t have the NFL license, no one would think twice of buying this rubbish. So sad we have been subjected to such trash. I hope one day we are treated with a simulation football game with the NFL license that we deserve. One that does not rely on scripting and animations..
  54. Victor186
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is trash. I don’t recommend buying this game. Please save your money.
  55. Solo_It
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I'll say it. I miss the raw feel of Madden 08
  56. Drewseph1354
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This is a disgrace. ..how much money have you scammed out of your loyal followers pockets
  57. Ausbom
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    It’s the same game as the last 5 maddens, just repackaged and new color scheme. Week one of release and there’s no content, glitches and bugs that should not be there. The game is broken. EA has gotten lazy with adding anything unique to the game. Franchise is forgotten, ultimate team is garbage, and the players faces aren’t even realistic. No competition is allowing EA to do the absoluteIt’s the same game as the last 5 maddens, just repackaged and new color scheme. Week one of release and there’s no content, glitches and bugs that should not be there. The game is broken. EA has gotten lazy with adding anything unique to the game. Franchise is forgotten, ultimate team is garbage, and the players faces aren’t even realistic. No competition is allowing EA to do the absolute minimum and scam people out of their hard earned money.… Expand
  58. psal09
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    What really makes me sad are all the kids growing up now who don't understand what everyone is so angry about. The kids who have never gotten to experience a good NFL game that features their favorite players and teams. They've had nothing but the same tired Madden experience but don't know enough to think that it could be better.

    The gameplay needs to be rebuilt from the ground up. EA    What really makes me sad are all the kids growing up now who don't understand what everyone is so angry about. The kids who have never gotten to experience a good NFL game that features their favorite players and teams. They've had nothing but the same tired Madden experience but don't know enough to think that it could be better.

    The gameplay needs to be rebuilt from the ground up. EA is making literally billions of dollars off this game every year they can afford to hire developers who would actually be able to achieve this. The frostbite engine is not build for football simulation and is out-preformed by game engines from 15 years ago. The only people happy with this gameplay are people who never played older football games or the "pro" players who just cheese the flaws in the game until it doesn't even resemble football anymore.

    No attention has been paid to making the franchise mode actually fun to play or a realistic sim. This has been completely broken since at least Madden 13. I've seen games played with dice and look-up tables that had more realism. MUT is a complete waste of time and/or money. The yard might be fun if it wasn't just another excuse to push micro-transactions.

    EA is such a shady, horrible company. Do they have no pride at all in the product they put their name on? Do they have no moral qualms about pushing gambling and micro-transactions on children? No wonder they can't get any developers with actual talent to come work for them and the ones that do try to get out of there as soon as they can.    … Expand
  59. outz
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    wow what a piece of crap! bugs galore, micro transactions galore! it's a $60 roster update.

    this makes me want to watch LESS real nfl. thanks ea
  60. Lowatlas
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    It’s time for this franchise to make a significant leap. It’s been stagnant for way too long! It’s almost to the point to where I’m getting insulted as a consumer. Please get it together EA. This is the only official NFL game we have! Help us!!
  61. JRW7
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It's bad, like really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, bad.… Expand
  62. tnelson1978
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This is the first Madden game in my entire life that I past on and didn't buy. I wanted to do this for the past few years but when EA is the only company allowed to make NFL simulation football games it forces you into buying it for a roster update. Not anymore though. If franchise mode doesn't get updated this year I'll wait for next year. In the meantime though I'll pay maxfootball 2020This is the first Madden game in my entire life that I past on and didn't buy. I wanted to do this for the past few years but when EA is the only company allowed to make NFL simulation football games it forces you into buying it for a roster update. Not anymore though. If franchise mode doesn't get updated this year I'll wait for next year. In the meantime though I'll pay maxfootball 2020 when it's released and NFL 2K5 to hold me over. It's amazing how 2K5 is still relevant after 15 years. I can go on forever about this and that, but we've only been doing that for years. I've had enough. #NFLdropEA; #FixMaddenFranchise… Expand
  63. aawe0661
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Thinking about buying this game? Don’t. Do you own most or all of the Madden games like a majority of players? Then you already have 5+ versions of this game. As a replacement, withdrawal $64 and take it to your fireplace and light it on fire. Watch as the ash from your money falls into the fire with real physics. Speak aloud and comment on what you’re seeing as it’ll be more accurate.
  64. bisonito
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Recycled animations, gameplay and modes. EA continues to make poor games and refuses to listen to the fans. They didn't update faces of some of the most famous stars in the NFL. The game is buggy and scripted. It really is just updated rosters and uniforms for a handful of teams. I hadn't bought Madden in 10 years before this year. This will likely be my last EA Madden purchase.
  65. Mdndncnch
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    #fixmadden Just give the game to 2k. The game is just so bad on so many accounts
  66. Jonstaymos
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    #NFLDROPEA #NFLDROPEA #NFLDROPEA #NFLDROPEA #NFLDROPEA #NFLDROPEA #NFLDROPEA #NFLDROPEA
  67. cmarker
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Every single year is just a carbon copy of the previous installment of the game, plus some new uniforms, players and rosters, and some useless stuff. NFL drop EA!
  68. Oval91
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Same trash game. Franchise mode was much better in 2004... Do not waste your money on this game.
  69. MikeF2034820
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    It's a pile on! Stop the monopoly. Let other companies make some money too! Sega deserves some of this money. No competition make for a bad product.
  70. ihatemadden21
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I hate madden 21
    I hate madden 21
    I hate madden 21
    I hate madden 21
    I hate madden 21    … Expand
  71. Jonathanronatha
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    It sucks and here's filler for the 75 character limit you don't have to read it but still
  72. RTStewa
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Absolute trash. Same thing every year smh. Please drop EA because we are sick and tired of the $60 roster update that we get every year with this waste of money.
  73. Chalanius
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    #NFLDropEA The Madden franchise continues to get worse and worse with uncaring developers, and a pay-to-win business model. Without any competition there is no innovation, leading to terrible Madden football games for over a decade. #NFLDropEA
  74. HolyGrail
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Trash Game. Very Clunky Feeling. Franchise Mode still hasn’t been revived and the yard is overrated. The game is purely focused on ultimate team and micro transactions.… Expand
  75. MichaelIronside
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game had been the same, overpriced piece of **** good for nothing title for the last 10 years. **** EA, **** Clint Ogledick, hope that game studio burns to the ground with everyone still in it.
  76. Jturn
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    It is so bad and buggy. Even the menu sucks. I essentially paid $58.99 for a roster update and a game mode ill never play (The Yard). This game would be bad if it was launched as a beta.
  77. Ihateea61
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Literally can’t tell the difference from madden 20 and madden 21 fix your goddamn game to there are so many glitches
  78. Tyler3187
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Absolutely zero has been done to improve franchise mode. Nearly every aspect is broken, dated or both. Custom coaches use the same preset Appearance options that have been in the game for 5 years. Scouting is a joke and player progression has next to mother to do with on field performance.
  79. Prodigy_r4ptor
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    This game is garbage it is madden 20 with a new number in fact madden 20 was better when I started a new franchise my coaches head was rainbow also the franchise was awful nothing changed it was so scripted the ball would teleport back into my hand I had big expectations for this year after #fixmaddenfranchise but they just ignored us so I’m wondering if they even play their own games andThis game is garbage it is madden 20 with a new number in fact madden 20 was better when I started a new franchise my coaches head was rainbow also the franchise was awful nothing changed it was so scripted the ball would teleport back into my hand I had big expectations for this year after #fixmaddenfranchise but they just ignored us so I’m wondering if they even play their own games and see how bad it is I hope next year they don’t have exclusive rights to simulation actually I hope they have no rights to simulation and can’t make a non generic game… Expand
  80. Djb123
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Gameplay is BROKEN, quality of a free mobile game. There’s no improvement at all, I would rather play madden 12 is insanely better than this. This should tell you a lot that if a game almost a decade older is better than the current one. Too bad EA puts no effort into the game at all. They said they were gonna put more effort into Franchise last year TOTAL BS. #NFLdropEA #FixMaddenFranchise
  81. matiastorna
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    seriously ea is the laziest game company not doing **** to game once again . #NFLDROPEA
  82. Gabenator53
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Same thing as the last few years except more bugs and more micro transactions. EA doesn’t even try to hide their greed with this one.
  83. Shotani
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Absolutely horrible game. Madden 21 franchise mode is EXACTLY the same as last year's mode. No. I'm not kidding. It's ACTUALLY the same. Same animations of coaches, same horrific and unrealistic trade system, same development, same practices, and even the same EXACT text dialogue from your players. Ultimate team is exactly the same as well! The yard is fun but gets very boring very fast.Absolutely horrible game. Madden 21 franchise mode is EXACTLY the same as last year's mode. No. I'm not kidding. It's ACTUALLY the same. Same animations of coaches, same horrific and unrealistic trade system, same development, same practices, and even the same EXACT text dialogue from your players. Ultimate team is exactly the same as well! The yard is fun but gets very boring very fast. DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY. #NFLDropEA… Expand
  84. KoolaidJam
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Just the same as before. But we all knew that. I didn’t buy the game I just wanted to give it a low rating like everyone lol.
  85. Joethegoat
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Do not play this game. I repeat, do NOT play this abomination of a game. The gameplay is so glitchy and abysmal. You suction cup to your lineman when running, you trip and fall and play is over. Blocking is incompetent. Zone coverage players don’t cover and stand still. This is a disaster. The spelled Seahawks wrong. Multiple typos that should NEVER EVER be the case. So little yet so largeDo not play this game. I repeat, do NOT play this abomination of a game. The gameplay is so glitchy and abysmal. You suction cup to your lineman when running, you trip and fall and play is over. Blocking is incompetent. Zone coverage players don’t cover and stand still. This is a disaster. The spelled Seahawks wrong. Multiple typos that should NEVER EVER be the case. So little yet so large because of how little they care. And they have micro transactions advertised everywhere. Like you can’t navigate without them selling you something… Expand
  86. Torture
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Zero effort put into this game. Just awful overall. NFL needs to take away EA's ability to make this game.
  87. Eldavo1995
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    I purchased this game because I saw that they were going to try and "listen to the players" about everything we have been complaining about for years. I am a franchise fan. I bought the game for that specific mode expecting the revamped version they promised. Nothing really changed. It still is the same boring franchise mode that lacks any true depth in it. If I could get my money back, II purchased this game because I saw that they were going to try and "listen to the players" about everything we have been complaining about for years. I am a franchise fan. I bought the game for that specific mode expecting the revamped version they promised. Nothing really changed. It still is the same boring franchise mode that lacks any true depth in it. If I could get my money back, I would. I hope that EA or the NFL decides to actually change this whole game. It's just not worth it.… Expand
  88. drewsuf13
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Riddled with glitches and technical problems at launch, an absolute embarrassment. EA clearly does not care about making a playable game, much less a decent one.
  89. Drewcannon
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Same game as the past 50 years, terrible movement, mediocre graphics, basically all reused animations and some how even more glitchy
  90. Belial_
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    It is an absolute embarrassment that EA is releasing the exact same game year after year. They got sued in the 2000s for making the same game 8 years in a row, Madden 05-12, and had to settle a class action lawsuit because of it, and yet here they are churning out the exact same game again. If you are dumb enough to buy this game make sure you keep your receipt, that way you can be part ofIt is an absolute embarrassment that EA is releasing the exact same game year after year. They got sued in the 2000s for making the same game 8 years in a row, Madden 05-12, and had to settle a class action lawsuit because of it, and yet here they are churning out the exact same game again. If you are dumb enough to buy this game make sure you keep your receipt, that way you can be part of the class action lawsuit that will happen in a few years.… Expand
  91. Loganjjones
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    The exact terrible game as last year. EA is a trash company who continues to tarnish the NFL & their customer bases support. I really hope the NFL will let 2K make a product worth buying. I recommend nobody buy this game.
  92. Havic
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    After years of playing CMF and seeing its decline i just wanted to know......can MUT replace my needs and the answer is....no. The gameplay and scripting is as bad as in CMF even though ‘user’ skill should be rewarding. This game needs an overhaul and if EA is up to the task...i still would give them a chance but they really should take action..now...
  93. Uberman2FT
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    It’s literally copied and pasted madden 21 with more bugs and glitches and the yard game mode that has just as many micro transactions as MUT which is a pretty much gambling for kids
  94. Kbg713
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Awful, very little to no care went into this game. An absolute sham! I cannot believe they charge $60 on this game, it’s an insult to video games and American football along with the intelligence of all fans of the franchise.
  95. maddensuks
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    What do you get when you combine lazy, no talent developers, America's worst video gaming company and a professional sports league that doesn't give one wet **** about their reputation?

    MADDEN 21 AKA the worst sports video game of all time. Good job Devs.
  96. grahamh7
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Madden 21 is a carbon copy of Madden 20 and the years before it in a number of ways. The gameplay continues to be influenced by cheesy superstar and x-factor abilities. The fans continue to be astonishingly low resolution, all wearing a jersey that sports the number 0. Franchise mode was completely untouched, outside of background changes, font changes, and simple card design changes.Madden 21 is a carbon copy of Madden 20 and the years before it in a number of ways. The gameplay continues to be influenced by cheesy superstar and x-factor abilities. The fans continue to be astonishingly low resolution, all wearing a jersey that sports the number 0. Franchise mode was completely untouched, outside of background changes, font changes, and simple card design changes. Contracts continue to be wrong. Patrick Mahomes famously signed a 10 year extension to his contract, keeping him in Kansas City for the next 12 years. When I opened Madden on release day and entered Franchise mode, Mahomes had a 7 year contract. It's shocking that something so big and iconic in the NFL was implemented incorrectly, being a change that takes such a minimal amount of coding and time commitment. EA continues to ignore customers and create new game modes that the community doesn't ask for, this year coming in the form of "The Yard". New modes such as The Yard are developed with the goal of higher profits from micro transactions, rather than producing a quality game for consumers. If you are someone who has an extreme passion for the NFL that plays online connected franchise with friends and feels a serious need for new rosters with accurate face scans, buying the game wouldn't be a bad idea. If you are 99% of the Madden community, you should not feel as if you are missing out by not purchasing the game. I have seen updates to free games that are more productive than the release of Madden 21, and they didn't cost $60.… Expand
  97. arizonaron115
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    this game really sucks. just straight up copy paste of the last 3 maddens. Glad the community has finally gotten sick of EA's BS
  98. DUpton
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    Worst game ever, same thing year in and year out. NFL NEEDS TO DROP EA! I will never buy another madden again.
  99. ChampionStyle
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    terrible terrible game, face of the franchise is terribly written and unplayable. Franchise is boring. Save your money.
  100. PandaMan456
    Aug 31, 2020
    0
    The gameplay is terrible. The franchise is terrible. Face of the franchise is cringe. It all sucks
Page:

Awards & Rankings

4
#4 Most Discussed PS4 Game of 2020

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
63

Mixed or average reviews - based on 29 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 29
  2. Mixed: 23 out of 29
  3. Negative: 2 out of 29
  1. PLAY! Zine
    Oct 8, 2020
    40
    Madden NFL 21 is another blatant recycling of last year’s edition of the „simulation“ of the American football. Sadly, most of the modes remained the same. Gameplay received a few minor tweaks, and in the end it still persists as a cash grab not worth anybody’s time.
    Read full review
  2. LevelUp
    Sep 14, 2020
    70
    Madden NFL says goodbye to a generation with more questions than answers and with an uncertain perspective on what may happen in the years to come.
    Read full review
  3. Impulsegamer
    Sep 9, 2020
    70
    For NFL diehards, there remains hundreds of gaming hours at your disposal in Madden 21. These same diehards – much like players of EA’s NHL and Sony’s The Show – will be left with the impression they’ve played this game before, however.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »